Your Complete Guide to Upcoming Baltimore Convention Center Events in 2026

Everything You Need to Know — Plus the Best Parking Solution at Just $18

The Baltimore Convention Center is one of the Mid-Atlantic’s premier event destinations, hosting everything from major trade shows and consumer expos to comic conventions and craft fairs. With 300,000 square feet of exhibition space and 50 meeting rooms, it’s where industry professionals, hobbyists, and families come together for unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re an exhibitor looking to showcase your products, an attendee eager to explore the latest innovations, or a family seeking weekend entertainment, the Baltimore Convention Center has something spectacular on the calendar for 2026.

And here’s the best part: Harbor Park Garage offers $18 all-day parking for Convention Center Events just a 3-minute walk from the convention center — saving you time, money, and stress compared to other parking options.

Let’s explore everything coming to the Baltimore Convention Center in 2026!

January 2026

Mid-Atlantic Nursery Trade Show (MANTS 2026)

January 7-9, 2026

What It Is: The green industry’s premier marketplace, MANTS is where serious business gets done in the horticulture world.

By the Numbers:

11,000+ attendees from over 40 states and a dozen countries
900+ exhibiting companies
82% of attendees are decision-makers or key influencers
Known as “the show where deals are made”

Who Should Attend:

Landscape contractors and designers
Garden centers and retail nurseries
Growers and wholesalers
Arborists and tree care professionals
Irrigation and hardscape suppliers
Anyone in the horticulture industry

What You’ll Experience:

Hands-on product discovery across acres of exhibit space
Latest trends in plants, equipment, and landscape materials
Networking with industry leaders
Educational seminars and demonstrations
New product launches and exclusive show deals
Order writing for the upcoming season

Show Hours:

Wednesday, January 7: 9 AM – 5 PM
Thursday, January 8: 9 AM – 5 PM
Friday, January 9: 8 AM – 1 PM

Registration:

Pre-registration: Available at MANTS.com
On-site registration: $30/person

Why It Matters: MANTS isn’t just a trade show — it’s where the industry prepares for spring. If you’re in the green industry, this is the must-attend event to secure inventory, discover innovations, and make the deals that will define your year.

Parking from Harbor Park Garage: 3-minute walk

Baltimore Home Show

January 17-18, 2026 | Hall D

What It Is: Your one-stop destination for home improvement inspiration, expert advice, and local contractors.

Show Hours:

Saturday, January 17: 10 AM – 8 PM
Sunday, January 18: 10 AM – 5 PM

Admission:

Get free passes online at mdhomeshows-bc.com
$10 at the door

What You’ll Find:

Home Remodeling: Kitchen, bathroom, and whole-home renovation experts
Outdoor Living: Deck builders, patio designers, and landscape professionals
Energy Efficiency: Solar panels, windows, insulation, and HVAC systems
Interior Design: Flooring, countertops, cabinetry, and decorating services
Smart Home Technology: Automation, security systems, and connected devices
Local Contractors: Meet face-to-face with Baltimore-area professionals

Special Features:

Interactive workshops and demonstrations
Expert Q&A sessions
Show-exclusive pricing and promotions
Compare multiple contractors in one day
Free consultations and estimates

Who Should Attend:

Homeowners planning renovations
First-time home buyers looking for trusted contractors
DIY enthusiasts seeking professional advice
Anyone looking to increase home value
Property managers and landlords

Why January is Perfect: Start your home improvement projects early! Meet contractors before the busy spring season, lock in better pricing, and get on their schedule before they book up.

Parking from Harbor Park Garage: 3-minute walk

February 2026

American Craft Made Baltimore 2026

February 20-22, 2026 | Halls A-C

What It Is: Now in its 49th year, American Craft Made Baltimore is a celebrated local institution showcasing extraordinary handcrafted work from across the nation.

By the Numbers:

400+ juried artists from across the country
10,000+ attendees over the weekend
$10M+ in artist sales since 2022
East Coast’s premier craft marketplace

What You’ll Experience:

Shopping: Browse and buy directly from artists creating museum-quality work in:
- Jewelry
- Ceramics
- Glass
- Fiber arts
- Wood
- Metal
- Paper
- Mixed media
- Printmaking (new expanded section!)
Artist Demonstrations: Watch artists at work
Hands-on Workshops: Learn techniques from masters
Special Programming: Talks, tours, and special events
Shipping Concierge Service: Purchase with confidence — items can be packaged and shipped for you

Special Features & Events:

Opening Night Preview (Thursday, February 19)

After-hours event at the convention center
Connect with artists over beverages and light bites
Celebrate marketplace award winners
First opportunity to purchase before crowds arrive

Educational Programs:

Guided fair tours with American Craft Council executive director
Artist talks and panel discussions
Member & Artist Lounge for networking
Career-focused programs for students pursuing craft

Admission:

American Craft Council members receive free tickets
Group discounts available (10+ people)
Children 12 and under free with adult
Single-day and full-weekend passes available

Why It’s Special: This isn’t mass-produced mall merchandise. Every piece is handcrafted by the artist you’re buying from. You’re supporting independent artists, taking home unique works, and often getting custom pieces made just for you.

Pro Tips:

Arrive early on Friday for best selection
Bring measurements if shopping for furniture or large pieces
Many artists accept commissions for custom work
Bring cash (though most artists accept cards)
Use the shipping service for large or fragile items

Hotel Packages: Discounted rates available at hotels just steps from the convention center. Perfect for out-of-town visitors wanting to make a weekend of it!

Parking from Harbor Park Garage: 3-minute walk

June 2026

Small Business Advancement Conference

June 4, 2026

What It Is: Hosted by Baltimore’s Mayor’s Office of Small and Minority Business Advocacy & Development, this conference empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Who Should Attend:

Small business owners
Entrepreneurs launching new ventures
Minority-owned businesses
Women-owned businesses
Startups seeking resources
Anyone looking to grow their business

What to Expect:

Educational workshops and seminars
Networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs
Access to business resources and support programs
Information on city contracts and opportunities
Success stories and case studies
Expert speakers and panel discussions

Why It Matters: Small businesses are the backbone of Baltimore’s economy. This conference provides the tools, connections, and knowledge to help your business thrive.

Registration: Details available at smba-d.baltimorecity.gov

Parking from Harbor Park Garage: 3-minute walk

September 2026

Baltimore Comic-Con 2026

September 25-27, 2026

What It Is: One of the largest comic conventions on the East Coast, celebrating comics, pop culture, and fandom!

Confirmed Guests (More to Be Announced):

Jason Aaron (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles)
Mark Buckingham (Fables)
Gene Ha (Mae)
Tony Harris (The Whistling Skull)
Dan Jurgens (Action Comics)
Jae Lee (Inhumans)
Terry Moore (Strangers in Paradise)
Kevin Nowlan (Batman: Sword of Azrael)
Ryan Ottley (Invincible)
Matthew Dow Smith (DC’s Misfits of Magic)
Scott Snyder (DC K.O.)

What You’ll Experience:

Artist Alley: Meet your favorite comic creators
Dealer Room: Rare comics, collectibles, toys, and merchandise
Panel Discussions: Hear from industry legends
Ringo Awards: Celebrating excellence in comics
Cosplay: Amazing costumes everywhere
Workshops: Learn drawing, writing, and publishing
Original Art: Purchase sketches and commissions
Exclusive Merchandise: Convention-exclusive items

Admission:

General Admission: Available online now
VIP Packages Include:
- Exclusive early admission all 3 days
- 2026 Baltimore Comic-Con exclusive convention t-shirt
- 2026 Baltimore Comic-Con yearbook with VIP exclusive cover
- Show-exclusive lithograph
Kids 10 and under: FREE with paid adult admission

Special Activities:

Sketch duels and artist challenges
Gaming tournaments
Kids’ activities and family-friendly programming
Cosplay contests
Special signing sessions

Why Baltimore Comic-Con is Special: Unlike mega-conventions that feel corporate and crowded, Baltimore Comic-Con maintains an intimate, creator-focused atmosphere. It’s easier to meet your favorite artists, get sketches, and have real conversations. Plus, it’s centered around COMICS — not just general pop culture.

Pro Tips for Attendees:

Buy VIP for early admission to best dealer selection
Bring a portfolio/sketchbook for commissions
Wear comfortable shoes (you’ll walk miles!)
Bring cash for small vendors and artist commissions
Plan panel schedule in advance
Check out programming announcements closer to event

For Exhibitors & Artists: More announcements coming in the weeks ahead. Follow Baltimore Comic-Con on social media for latest updates.

Purchase Tickets: Available now at checkout.conventions.leapevent.tech/eh/Baltimore_Comic_Con_2026

Parking from Harbor Park Garage: 3-minute walk

Additional Events & Ongoing Calendar

The Baltimore Convention Center hosts hundreds of events each year, including:

Professional Conferences

Medical and healthcare conferences
Technology summits
Banking and finance conventions
Education and training seminars
Government and public sector meetings

Consumer Shows

Wedding shows
Health and wellness expos
Pet expos
Food and beverage festivals
Sports and recreation shows

Trade Shows

Restaurant and hospitality expos
Manufacturing and industrial shows
Construction and building materials
Technology and electronics
Fashion and apparel

Cultural Events

Ethnic festivals
Arts and crafts fairs
Music and entertainment events
Community celebrations

Stay Updated: For the complete, up-to-date calendar, visit bccenter.org/events

Why Harbor Park Garage is Your Best Convention Center Parking Choice

When attending events at the Baltimore Convention Center, parking is one of the first things you need to figure out. The wrong parking choice can turn a great event experience into a stressful, expensive hassle.

Here’s why thousands of convention attendees choose Harbor Park Garage:

Location, Location, Location

55 Market Place, Baltimore, MD 21202

3-minute walk to Baltimore Convention Center
One block from the Charles Street entrance
Central Inner Harbor location — also close to hotels, restaurants, attractions

You’ll be in the convention center before people from distant parking lots have even boarded their shuttle.

Unbeatable All-Day Rate: $18

Let’s Compare:

Baltimore Convention Center Garage:

Typical rate: $25-30/day
You save: $7-12 per day
Limited spaces during major events

Nearby Hourly Parking:

Typical rate: $8-12/hour
8-hour event: $64-96
You save: $46-78 per day!

Convention Center On-Site Parking:

Often $35+ for events
You save: $17+ per day
Books up fast for popular shows

Street Meters:

Max 2-4 hours
Requires moving your car multiple times
Expensive tickets if you’re late

Multi-Day Events Made Easy

Overnight Parking: $24

For multi-day conventions like MANTS, American Craft Made, or Comic-Con:

Example: 3-Day Event

Option 1: Harbor Park Garage

Day 1: $18
Night 1-2: $24 (unlimited in/out)
Day 2: Included
Night 2-3: $24 (unlimited in/out)
Day 3: Included
Total: $66 for entire event

Option 2: Daily Convention Parking

Day 1: $30
Day 2: $30
Day 3: $30
Total: $90
You save: $24

Option 3: Hourly Parking (8 hours/day)

Day 1: $80
Day 2: $80
Day 3: $80
Total: $240
You save: $174!

No Time Limits = No Stress

With all-day parking at Harbor Park Garage:

✓ Arrive early to set up your booth
✓ Take lunch breaks at Inner Harbor restaurants
✓ Network after hours without rushing
✓ Explore Baltimore between sessions
✓ Never watch the clock

For Exhibitors & Vendors

If you’re exhibiting at a convention:

Setup Day Advantage:

Arrive early for load-in
Park close to convention center
Make multiple trips if needed
All-day rate covers entire setup period

Show Days:

Reliable parking every morning
No hunting for spots in crowded garages
Budget-friendly for multi-day events
Easy load-out at show’s end

Overnight Parking:

Secure your vehicle and merchandise
$24 overnight rate with unlimited in/out
Return next morning without re-parking hassle

Security & Amenities

24/7 Professional Staffing:

Attended facility at all hours
Security monitoring
Professional, helpful staff

Clean, Modern Facility:

Well-lit and maintained
Clear signage
Elevator access
ADA accessible

Weather Protection:

Covered parking
No scraping ice in winter
No baking car in summer
Stay dry during load-in/load-out

Easy Online Reservations

Reserve Your Spot:

Visit harborparkgarage.com
Select your dates
Guaranteed space during busy events
Same rate as walk-ups
Avoid sold-out situations

Walk-Ups Welcome:

No reservation? No problem
Subject to availability during major events
But we recommend booking ahead for popular shows

Planning Your Convention Center Visit

Getting to Harbor Park Garage

From I-95 (North or South):

Take Exit 53 (I-395 North toward Downtown)
Follow signs to Inner Harbor
Turn right on Pratt Street
Garage entrance on right at Market Place

From I-83 (South):

Take Exit 1 (Fayette Street)
Turn right on Fayette Street
Turn left on Pratt Street
Garage entrance ahead on right

GPS Address: 55 Market Place, Baltimore, MD 21202

Walking to the Baltimore Convention Center

From Harbor Park Garage to Convention Center:

Main Entrance (Pratt Street):

Exit garage onto Market Place
Walk one block north to Pratt Street
Turn left (west) on Pratt Street
Convention Center entrance ahead
Time: 3 minutes

Charles Street Entrance:

Exit garage onto Market Place
Walk one block north to Pratt Street
Cross Pratt Street (convention center will be on your right)
Follow sidewalk to Charles Street entrance
Time: 3 minutes

Pro Tip: Check your event details for which entrance/hall to use. Most public shows use the Pratt Street entrance.

Nearby Amenities

Restaurants (All Within 5-Minute Walk):

Harborplace food courts
Power Plant Live restaurants and bars
Inner Harbor waterfront dining
Quick lunch options on Pratt Street
Coffee shops and cafes

Hotels:

Hyatt Regency Baltimore (2-minute walk)
Renaissance Baltimore (4-minute walk)
Royal Sonesta Harbor Court (5-minute walk)
Hilton Baltimore (5-minute walk)
Marriott Inner Harbor (6-minute walk)

Attractions (If You Have Extra Time):

National Aquarium (6-minute walk)
Maryland Science Center (4-minute walk)
Historic Ships (5-minute walk)
Inner Harbor (3-minute walk)
Power Plant Live (5-minute walk)

Tips for First-Time Convention Attendees

Before the Event:

Pre-register online when possible (saves time and often money)
Check parking details and reserve at Harbor Park Garage
Review event schedule and plan must-see exhibits
Book hotel early for multi-day events
Download event app if available

What to Bring:

Comfortable walking shoes (convention floors are tiring!)
Water bottle (staying hydrated is key)
Portable phone charger
Business cards (for networking)
Tote bag or backpack (for materials and purchases)
Cash (some vendors prefer it)
Light jacket (convention centers can be chilly)

At the Event:

Arrive early for best parking and exhibit access
Pick up show guide/map at entrance
Visit exhibitors strategically (start with must-sees)
Attend seminars and demonstrations
Network with fellow attendees
Take advantage of show specials
Plan lunch breaks (Inner Harbor has great options nearby)

For Exhibitors:

Arrive during designated load-in times
Use dollies/carts (convention center has equipment)
Bring extension cords and power strips
Have plenty of business cards and marketing materials
Set up engaging displays
Train booth staff on products/services
Stay energized (it’s a marathon, not a sprint!)
Network with fellow exhibitors during downtime

Make the Most of Your Baltimore Visit

One of the best things about events at the Baltimore Convention Center is the location. You’re in the heart of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, which means there’s plenty to do before, after, or between convention activities.

Extend Your Visit

Morning Before Your Event:

Breakfast at Inner Harbor restaurants
Walk around the harbor waterfront
Visit Harbor Wetland (free, award-winning attraction)

Lunch Breaks:

Step out to dozens of restaurants within 5 minutes
Grab quick lunch at Harborplace
Sit by the water and recharge

After the Show:

Explore the National Aquarium
Tour Historic Ships
Shop at Inner Harbor
Dinner with harbor views
Drinks at Power Plant Live

Evening Entertainment:

Live music venues nearby
Harbor cruises
Comedy clubs
Theater performances

Multi-Day Event Suggestions

Day 1 Evening:

Check into your hotel
Welcome reception at convention
Explore Inner Harbor
Dinner at waterfront restaurant

Day 2 Lunch:

Take a break from the show
Walk to Little Italy (10 minutes)
Authentic Italian lunch
Return refreshed for afternoon sessions

Day 3 Conclusion:

Morning at convention
Say goodbye to new connections
Afternoon: Visit attraction you missed
Explore Fells Point before heading home

Special Parking Rates & Information

Standard Rates

All-Day Parking (12 hours): $18
Overnight Parking: $24 with unlimited in/out access

For Exhibitors & Multi-Day Events

If you’re exhibiting at a show or attending a multi-day convention, contact us about:

Extended stay rates
Overnight parking packages
Load-in/load-out accommodations
Group rates for large exhibitor teams

Call: (410) 528-0888
Email: [email protected]

Monthly Parking

Frequent visitors to the Convention Center? Ask about our monthly parking options:

Perfect for local exhibitors who work multiple shows
Sales representatives visiting conventions regularly
Event planners coordinating multiple events

Accessibility

Harbor Park Garage is ADA accessible with:

Elevator access to all levels
Designated accessible parking spaces
Wide aisles and clear pathways
Accessible payment options

Reserve Your Baltimore Convention Center Parking Today

Don’t leave your convention experience to chance. With major events regularly selling out, securing reliable parking should be at the top of your pre-event checklist.

Why Reserve with Harbor Park Garage:

✓ Best Location: 3-minute walk to convention center
✓ Best Value: $18 all-day (save up to $78 vs. hourly parking)
✓ Best Service: Professional staff, secure facility
✓ Best Planning: Guaranteed spot during busy events
✓ Best Experience: No stress, no surprises, no hunting for parking

How to Reserve

Online: Visit harborparkgarage.com/parking-nearby/baltimore-convention-center

Select your event dates
Choose number of days
Receive confirmation instantly
Show up and park!

Phone: Call (410) 528-0888

Speak with our friendly staff
Get answers to any questions
Make reservation over the phone

Walk-Up: No reservation? Come on by!

Subject to availability
Same rates as online reservations
We’ll do our best to accommodate you

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How early should I arrive before my event? A: We recommend arriving 30-45 minutes before the event starts. This gives you time to park, walk to the convention center, and get through any entrance lines. For major events with expected crowds, consider arriving an hour early.

Q: Can I come and go during the day? A: Yes! Our all-day parking includes unlimited in-and-out privileges. Perfect for lunch breaks or running back to your car for supplies.

Q: What if my event runs longer than expected? A: Our 12-hour all-day rate covers most convention schedules. If you need to stay beyond 12 hours, our overnight rate ($24) gives you coverage until the next day with unlimited access.

Q: Is the garage safe to park overnight? A: Absolutely. We have 24/7 security monitoring and professional staff on site at all times. Our facility is well-lit and secure.

Q: How do I know if the garage will have space for my event? A: We recommend making reservations online for major events to guarantee your spot. However, we typically have good availability even for large conventions.

Q: What if I’m exhibiting and need to load equipment? A: Call us at (410) 528-0888 to discuss your specific needs. We can provide information about load-in procedures and ensure we can accommodate your requirements.

Q: Are there height restrictions? A: Yes, standard vehicle clearance. If you’re driving an oversized vehicle (box truck, etc.), please call ahead to discuss options.

Q: Can I pay with credit card? A: Yes, we accept all major credit cards as well as cash.

Q: What if I lose my parking ticket? A: No problem. Our staff can help you. There may be a lost ticket fee, so keep your ticket with you!

Q: Is the garage accessible for people with disabilities? A: Yes, Harbor Park Garage is fully ADA accessible with designated accessible spaces and elevator access.

Connect With Us

Harbor Park Garage
55 Market Place
Baltimore, MD 21202

Phone: (410) 528-0888
Website: harborparkgarage.com
Convention Center Parking Page: harborparkgarage.com/parking-nearby/baltimore-convention-center

Hours: Open 24/7
Staff: Available 24/7

Follow Us:

Check our website for updates on convention center events
Sign up for email alerts about major shows
Get special parking promotions for big events

Start Planning Your Baltimore Convention Center Experience

Whether you’re attending MANTS to stock your nursery for spring, shopping for handcrafted treasures at American Craft Made, meeting your favorite comic creators at Baltimore Comic-Con, or planning your dream home renovation at the Home Show, the Baltimore Convention Center hosts experiences that educate, inspire, and entertain.

And with Harbor Park Garage just steps away, your experience starts the moment you arrive. No hunting for parking. No watching the meter. No stress about where you left your car. Just easy, affordable, reliable parking that lets you focus on why you came: the event itself.

Your next great convention experience is waiting. We’ll save you a spot.

Reserve Your Parking Today at harborparkgarage.com

Harbor Park Garage: Your Gateway to Baltimore Convention Center Events